Flood watches run through tonight

The National Weather Service has issued a Flash Flood Watch for six area counties until 1 a.m. Tuesday.

Winnebago, Boone, Ogle, Lee, DeKalb and McHenry counties are expected to see periods of thunderstorms throughout Monday evening with rainfalls totaling 2 inches or more.

Many area rivers and streams have already breached their banks and a ground saturation levels from weekend storms mean any further rainfall could lead to dangerous flooding situations. This afternoon saw reports of roadways covered in water across Rockford and in surrounding areas.

A Flash Flood Watch indicates that conditions could develop that lead to flash flooding. Area residents should monitor forecasts and be prepared to take action if in an affected area.

Citizens are advised to never try to drive through floodwaters or otherwise enter a flooding area. Strong currents produced by floods can sweep vehicles off roadways even if the water levels do not appear very high.